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Castiglione di Garfagnana

After I left Pieve Fosciana I drove a little further on to Castiglione di Garfagnana which sits at 545 metres above the Esarulo River, a tributary of the Serchio River.

The town dates back to a Roman Castra, called Castrum Leonis (Lion’s Castle), built to oversee the valley that leads to the San Pelligrino Pass. The castle was built between1170 and 1227. It became Lucca’s most important garrison in the Serchio valley. In 1390 the “Rocca” or castle was extended and towers were built.

Some of the Rocca remains and you can walk through the narrow streets of the town to the top.

There is a road around the edge of the town outside the wall, offering excellent views of the castle and the surrounding countryside.

I entered the town through the Porta del Ponte Levatoio. It was mid afternoon and the town was deserted, leaving me to wander alone.

I went up into the old castle for some gorgeous views over the town.

Coming down from the top I came across the Church of San Pietro which was built in 723 by 2 Lombard brothers, but was rebuilt in the 12th century by Bishop Guido of Lucca.

I walked on through the pretty streets as it began to rain.

I will return when the town is a bit busier, I am sure there is more to discover.

Castiglione di Garfagnana has witnessed and participated in many historical events and wars. It is amazing to see how well it has survived so many ordeals. Perhaps it’s motto, “Fortis et Fidelis ” (Strong and faithful) sums it up.

Mulino & Debra ~ If you have more information, I would be most grateful, this is where my maternal grandmother was born, Natalina Lunardi… and I’ll be visiting in May…
Can’t wait to walk these ancient passageways with you, Debra! Grazie!

It is one of my favourite villages in Garfagnana. You should visit the fortress, too. I know it is private but if you call you can book it. A big event is the Crocioni religious procession during the Easter celebration, very interesting. Then they do a medieval festival in summer and a great chestnut, truffles sagra in autumn.